Germany’s DAB Group is entering shipowning with an order for two ultramax bulk carriers at China’s Jiangsu Soho Innovation & Technology Shipbuilding, Splash 247 reported. The contract includes an option for a third vessel, giving the group scope to expand the initial pair as it develops its commercial shipping business.
The 64,500 dwt vessels were ordered through Dassler Schiffahrts- und Handelsgesellschaft (DSH), a DAB group company with a long-standing presence in Germany’s maritime sector. DSH has been active since 1993 but has operated without a fleet of its own until now. The newbuilding commitment therefore marks a change from its previous position in the sector to one that includes ownership of ships.
Both firmly contracted vessels are due to begin service in the first half of 2029, according to Splash 247. The two-ship order forms the starting point for DAB’s wider move into commercial shipowning, rather than the full extent of the shipping business the group intends to build. The third ship remains an option, separate from the firm pair.
DAB said its plans involve a combination of owned tonnage and vessels chartered in and out on a long-term basis. Ownership is therefore one part of the group’s stated approach, alongside chartering arrangements, as it builds up its shipping activities. The new ships will establish the owned-fleet element of that strategy.
For Jiangsu Soho Innovation & Technology, the agreement also represents a European market debut, Splash 247 reported. It brings a larger 64,500 dwt vessel design into the Chinese yard’s orderbook as well as securing the German group’s initial shipowning order.
The Chinese group underwent a reorganisation in 2024 and has subsequently accumulated a substantial shipbuilding backlog. Its existing orderbook now stretches into 2029, the same year that DAB’s two firm vessels are scheduled to enter service.